Barrett McKim: North Carolina boy, 12, suffers 3rd-degree burns after science experiment goes wrong
This article contains graphic information that could be traumatic for some readers. Discretion is advised.
HIGHLANDS, NORTH CAROLINA: A 12-year-old boy has undergone multiple surgeries after being left with severe burns following an explosion while performing a science experiment. Barrett McKim reportedly suffered second and third-degree burns on 50% of his body at his home on June 23. Barrett’s mother, Caroline, also suffered serious injuries while saving him.
His father Kyle McKim told ABC station WLOS, “It involved a Bunsen burner, and he was using a number of things. Alcohol was in the mix. Somehow in that process, that got ignited and kind of blew up and back into his face. He’s burned on about 50 percent of his body, and my understanding is that about 20% of those are third-degree and 30% are second-degree.”
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He said, “Fortunately, he was wearing protective glasses, which certainly helped, but he was wearing a synthetic shirt, which ended up being a real contributor in the fire staying and trying to get that off as it kind of melted away with the accelerant on there,” before adding: “Caroline, although she’s yet to believe it, is a hero and I think a lot of the reason Barrett is alive.”
A GoFundMe campaign has also been started by the child’s uncle Stephen Schlautman, who wrote on the page: “Barrett’s neck, torso, arms, hands and thighs have second and third-degree burns. His mother, Caroline, sustained terrible burns on both hands but managed to save Barrett’s life. She called 911 and continued to spray water on Barrett until the ambulance arrived. Barrett was flown by helicopter to the Augusta burn center, where doctors say that he must have many surgeries involving skin grafts. Caroline has an equally daunting prognosis.”
Schlautman updated the fundraiser on July 7 and noted that Barrett would undergo a fourth surgery. The next day, he shared, “We are praying fervently for Barrett’s 5th surgery and Caroline’s 2nd surgery tomorrow. We so appreciate the amazing support and all the people praying around the world for Barrett and his family.”
The boy had a sixth operation on July 9 as his uncle said, “The doctors believe his 3rd degree burns have substantially decreased. His next surgery is looking like midweek next week. We are learning that burns can and do change on a daily basis.” A recent update has added, “His leg bandages were replaced today and we were able to see that his legs are primarily doing very, very, well. There is a section on each leg that still has some cadaver on it but for the most part they have new pink skin. He is still having a lot of pain in his neck, which we are not sure is because of the staples that pull if he tries to move or if it is actually the burn healing.”
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At the time of writing, the donation page with a $200,000 goal has received $122,558. Apart from the money, many have taken to the comment section to pray for Barrett and his family. A person wrote: “Looking forward to learning of your accomplishments advancing science! The world is in your hands.” Another person said, “Praying for you Barrett.” “Praying for this young man, his mom, and their whole family. May God help you get through this very difficult time,” the third one added.